Sir, - "It's a tremendous feat but I don't understand the reasons," commented a dispirited Noel Tracey on Dana's success in the European election. He is not alone in seeking a rational explanation for a success story that defies political logic.
To find an answer we must plumb deeper levels than the world of beef, subsidies and rich fundings which we normally associate with the EU. Dana projects many deep-seated longings, wishes, and aspirations which haven't found expression or fulfilment from material wealth. She also reflects the need for romance and sentiment in our barren lives. In addition, she expresses latent fears about the darker sides of Europe, especially in the concern for Christian values - an unease which struck a chord along the western coast and which, at national level, finds its extreme expression in the Pro-life Movement. Her election will, we hope, be a subtle reminder for greater accountability on the part of our MEPs. They are seldom seen and little heard except at election time, show little evidence of performance and provide no feedback.
These are the reasons that Dana is seen as a modern Joan of Arc setting out to do battle, armed with the armour of simplicity and the sword of virtue. - Yours, etc., John J. Fallon,
Boyle, Co Roscommon.